Tests & Treatments for Erectile Dysfunction at University of Colorado Hospital
Tests for Erectile Dysfunction
Physical examination
Your doctor will examine you for possible causes of erectile dysfunction
Blood counts
Your blood is tested for infections and diseases
Urinalysis
Urine is tested for various compounds, like nitrates, blood, bacteria and crystallized minerals.
Lipid profile
A blood test that measures fat
Measurement of liver enzymes and creatinine
A blood test that checks for liver and kidney disease or damage
Treatments for Erectile Dysfunction
Lifestyle changes
Includes quitting smoking, losing weight and increasing exercise
Medications
Oral or injected drugs can help reverse erectile dysfunction
Vacuum devices
A mechanical device creates a vacuum that pulls blood into the penis; this helps create an erection.
Surgically implanted devices
One of two types of devices (malleable or inflatable) is surgically inserted into the penis. These can restore erections for many men with erectile dysfunction.
Surgery
There are two types of surgery for erectile dysfunction
- Surgery to repair arteries: can clear obstructions that block the flow of blood. This works best for young men with artery blockage caused by injury.
- Surgery to veins that allow blood to leave the penis: blocks off veins and prevents blood from leaking out of the penis during an erection.